New Delhi: The residence of former Jammu and Kashmir Governor, Satya Pal Malik, was searched by the CBI, along with raids conducted at the properties of his close relatives. These actions are linked to the investigation of corruption allegations surrounding the Kiru Hydro Power Project in Jammu and Kashmir. On February 22, the CBI carried out the search at Satya Pal Malik's residence in connection with the corruption probe related to the Kiru hydropower project. During his tenure as the Governor, Malik had asserted that a bribe of Rs 300 crore was offered to influence the clearance of two files pertaining to the hydroelectric project. Following the raid, Malik shared on X that being a farmer's son, he is not intimidated by such actions. Notably, Satya Pal Malik, who served as the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir from August 23, 2018, to October 30, 2019, faces allegations of accepting a bribe of Rs 300 crore to facilitate the approval of two files associated with the mentioned project.
The Kiru Hydroelectric Project, a proposed 624 MW run-of-river scheme, is slated to be established on the Chenab river in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir. The project's plan includes the construction of a 135-meter-high dam and an underground power station featuring four units, each with a capacity of 156 MW.
Satya Pal Malik disclosed during a program in Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, on October 17, 2021, that he was offered a substantial bribe during his tenure as the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir. He recounted that the bribe offer coincided with the arrival of two files, and upon consultation with his secretary, he discovered potential malfeasance in both deals. Malik asserted that he rejected both proposals, despite the lure of Rs 150 crore for each file. In his statement, he humorously remarked, "I had said that I had brought five kurta-pajamas and would leave with that."
Furthermore, in response to inquiries by the CBI, Malik expressed his willingness to disclose the identities of those involved in making the bribe offer. This revelation adds an additional layer to the ongoing investigation into corruption allegations related to the Kiru hydropower project, shedding light on the complexities surrounding the project during Malik's tenure as Governor.
